Advanced Placement FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Am I guaranteed college credit with the AP option?

   Answer: No. AP college credit is dependent on your May AP test score. A score of a 3 or above may earn you college credit. You should contact the college of your choice (or refer to the college website) to ascertain the college policy on awarding credit for AP.

2. What are the Advanced Placement courses offered at LOL?

   Answer: United States History, European History, English Literature/Comp, English Language/Comp, Biology, Statistics, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Physics B, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Spanish Language, Government & Politics, Art: Portfolio, Studio Art.

3. If I take an Advanced Placement course, am I required to take the exam?

   Answer: Yes. All students enrolled in an Advanced Placement course will take the corresponding exam. Students must score 3, 4, or 5 on an AP exam to receive college credit.

4. If I am not sure I can earn college credit, why should I consider taking an AP course?

   Answer: Please take a moment to read the following excerpts from an article by Jay Mathews, Washington Post Staff Writer:

   “Students who struggle in an AP course with its college-sized reading list and flunk the college-level, three-hour final exam are still much better off than if they had been denied a chance to take the course and the test. They gain a clear understanding of what is required to succeed in college.”

   “Students who did not take AP in high school showed little success in college. However, students who took and failed an AP exam still significantly increased their chances of college success.”

   Reprinted with permission from washingtonpost.com and The Washington Post.